RETIRED metro police officer Captain Peter Keogh brought laughter and safety awareness to New Germany Primary School on Friday, November 22. Known as the Laughing Policeman, Captain Keogh tours Durban schools, using child-friendly techniques, comedy and simple terms to educate children on safety.

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His passion stems from personal experience, having lost his wife, a fellow metro police officer, in an accident. Captain Keogh served in the metro police department until his retirement but continues to serve through safety awareness programmes.

At New Germany Primary, Captain Keogh taught the junior primary learners essential safety tips. “When calling the emergency number, provide your full name, address and report your case,” he instructed. He also warned learners about stranger danger and demonstrated how strangers can fake permission from parents.

Captain Keogh shared a personal safety tip: “Establish a secret code with your parents, so you know it’s safe to go with someone.” He also emphasised the importance of wearing seatbelts and speaking up when parents use their phones while driving.

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Captain Keogh’s visit followed another safety programme facilitated by the metro police, which included road safety rules. Durban Metro Police spokesperson Boyise Zungu explained that the programme is a community initiative aimed at children and transport clubs responsible for transporting children.

“Everyone is responsible for safety,” he said.

The programme is part of ongoing safety efforts as schools prepare for the December holidays.

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